Helper Virus May Be Responsible for Severe Hepatitis Cases in Kids

Severe cases of hepatitis—some with outcomes as significant as death—started popping up this spring, puzzling researchers. More than 1,000 pediatric patients have been impacted throughout 35 countries. Scientists may now have an answer—a helper virus. They have discovered the presence of two viruses—an adeno-associated virus and a helper adeno- or herpesvirus—present in children with severe hepatis. The presence of an immune system-related gene may also play a role. However, more research is necessary before causation is proven. Click here to read more.